From December 1, the so-called “big” ring of the low-emission zone comes into force in Sofia, which will limit access to the most polluting cars. This was confirmed by the deputy mayor for the “Green System, Ecology and Land Use” Nadezhda Bobcheva in the “Social Network” program on NOVA NEWS. She emphasized that measures for cleaner air must be combined to have an effect, and presented several more initiatives, including a manual for children and a project for nearly 6 million leva to expand the green system.
“I remind you that from December 1 this year the so-called “big” ring comes into force. The regulation was adopted quite a long time ago. It will include the most polluting eco-categories“, commented Bobcheva.
A special focus in the fight against pollution is placed on children, who are the most vulnerable. The Sofia Municipality, in partnership with the association “Air for Health“, has developed a manual that will be distributed in schools and kindergartens. It contains three main parts: protocols for action on days with dirty air, recommendations for improving the indoor environment (wet cleaning, filters) and advice on when and how to practice physical activity outdoors.
“First of all, I would like to thank our partners from the association “Air for Health“, whose health advice is reflected in the manual,“, commented Nadezhda Bobcheva.
According to Bobcheva, the expansion and increase in the price of the blue and green parking zones also has a direct environmental effect. The goal is to reduce the so-called “parasitic traffic“, which is generated by drivers driving around in search of a free parking space.
“From my point of view, the most important effect of the expansion of the blue and green zones is what it would have on the air. The expectations are that by increasing the value, between 20 and 30% of the so-called parasitic traffic, which is related to looking for a parking space, would be reduced,“ she commented.
Under the “Green Measures for Cleaner Air“ project worth nearly 6 million leva, muddy spots in the city will be improved, shrubs and trees will be planted on the major boulevards to absorb pollution. Among the more innovative solutions are the construction of a completely green wall on the facade of the First City Hospital and a special children's playground in the North Park with trees in pots and a misting system to support their development.